Grace LaConte
Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Teen Honoree
 An incredibly active teen and an avid softball player, Grace was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis in June 2023 at the age of 16. After months of unexplained and excruciating joint pain, she was referred to Yale Pediatric Rheumatology. She credits her amazing rheumatologist, Dr. Daniel Glaser and the Yale team, including the many wonderful nurses and support staff, with patiently finding her treatment plan and making her feel cared for and confident while figuring out what would work best for her body. With the current treatment plan being successful, she has been able to return to the softball field and her active lifestyle. This experience has inspired her to pursue a career in medicine. Read More
Join or support Grace and Team Grace on her personal fundraising page. |
Clare Michalak was recently diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis shortly before her 30th birthday. As a strength and nutrition coach out of North Haven, CT, Clare was inspired to learn how to continue her own weightlifting and athletic career, as well as help other arthritis and autoimmune warriors who were learning to navigate their disease. She continues to educate and explore what it means to train with an autoimmune disease and loves being an ambassador to the weight room. Clare is excited to be one of the Arthritis Foundation's honorees for 2024 and looks forward to partnering with the foundation in the future.